A seemingly homeless man attempted to rob a business in Kimberley with what looked like a toy gun.
This attempted business robbery took place on Tuesday, 10 October, at 22:10 at a well-known business in the Kimberley CBD.
Sgt Molefi Shemane, police spokesperson, said members of the Murder and Robbery unit in Kimberley are investigating this case.
Shemane said on Tuesday evening, when the employees of the business were busy closing, an unknown man entered the business through a small window, holding a weapon that resembled a black toy gun in his hand.
This unknown man is slender built, was wearing a blue balaclava and very dirty clothing, spoke Afrikaans, and appeared to be homeless. He demanded money from the employees.
He then left the business through the same window he entered, without robbing or injuring anyone.
Anyone who may have information that may lead to the arrest of the suspect, can contact the investigating officer, Det. Sgt Modise Moshotloa on 082-302-0407 or 08600 10111, or send an SMS anonymously to 32211 or use the MySAPS App.
- The police have noticed, with concern, the number of business and house robberies reported, and urged the community, especially business owners to become more vigilant and alert. They are urging the public to adhere to and implement the following safety hints to ensure their safety.
Business robberies:
install extra security gates and appoint security guards;
install security cameras and alarm systems;
ensure that all doors and windows are secure;
keep minimal cash on the premises and bank regularly;
train staff on how to handle robberies and emergency situations;
keep a record of serial numbers of valuable items;
tuckshops and other small businesses must adhere to the operating and closing times and not be open until late; and
refrain from sleeping in tuckshops as this makes you a bigger target for business robberies.
House robberies:
get a guard dog;
install security gates and burglar bars;
always lock doors and windows when leaving the house;
consider installing an alarm system and CCTV cameras;
do not open the door for strangers;
be aware of your surroundings when entering or leaving the house;
immediately contact police when you notice suspicious persons loitering around and sitting on street corners; and
do not leave spare keys in an obvious place like post boxes.
General robberies:
avoid walking alone at night in dimly lit areas;
keep your valuables out of sight in public places;
be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious behaviour;
do not carry large amounts of cash or valuable items with you;
keep your cellphone and other electronic devices hidden when walking in public; and
do not resist during a robbery, as this may escalate the situation and increase your risk of harm.
ATM robberies:
do not speak to strangers while using an ATM;
use an ATM that is well lit and not hidden away;
do not give your pin to anyone;
cover your pin when doing ATM transaction;
do not withdraw large amount of cash, rather use debit or credit cards for purchases;
always be aware of your surroundings;
if possible, withdraw money at the tellers in supermarkets;
be aware of card scammers;
be aware of tricksters that say they can increase your money when withdrawing cash from ATM’s or banks; and
do not use an ATM that you suspect was tampered with.
- Lt. Col. Sergio Kock, police spokesperson, said by following safety hints, one can reduce the risk of falling victim to a robbery. “Prevention is key. If you witness or experience a robbery, report it immediately to the police. Working together, we can help create safer, crime-free communities for everyone,” Kock concluded.
